Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Orzo is a delightful dish that blends the comforting flavors of orzo pasta, the creaminess of cottage cheese, and the freshness of spinach and tomatoes. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a healthy punch, making it the ideal meal for those focused on a high-protein diet. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and even provides excellent meal prep opportunities for busy weekdays.
Why make this Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Orzo recipe
- Protein-rich: With cottage cheese and orzo, this dish delivers a hearty amount of protein, perfect for muscle recovery and growth.
- Quick prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, this simple recipe fits into any busy schedule.
- Meal-prep friendly: Easily make a big batch for weekly lunches or dinners that reheat well.
- Low-carb: With the inclusion of spinach, this meal is lower in carbs compared to traditional pasta dishes, giving a health-focused option.
- Budget-friendly: The ingredients are affordable and accessible, making it a great choice for any household.
“This Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Orzo recipe is a game changer. My kids love it, and I feel good about serving it!” – Happy Chef
How to make Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Orzo
Making Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Orzo is a breeze. You only need a few basic kitchen tools: a large pot for boiling the orzo and a skillet for sautéing the veggies and bringing everything together. This is an excellent meal option if you love fast protein breakfasts, try our Cottage Cheese Pancakes for a delicious start to your day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
This Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Orzo is flexible; you can substitute whole wheat orzo for a healthier option, and add any other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to customize it to your taste.
Directions
- Cook: Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté: Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine: Add cooked orzo, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and cottage cheese to the skillet.
- Stir: Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish: Garnish with crumbled feta cheese before serving. Enjoy!
How to serve Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Orzo
This Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Orzo is delicious served warm, straight from the skillet. Pair it with a side green salad for a refreshing meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. This dish makes for a perfect vegetarian dinner, too!
How to store
You can keep any leftover Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Orzo in the fridge for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. Alternatively, you can also freeze it for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. For safe storage timing, see USDA FoodData Central.
Tips to make
- Opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, increase the amount of cottage cheese.
- Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning as necessary.
- For extra flavor, add herbs such as basil or oregano.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Keep it vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the orzo cooking water.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular orzo with gluten-free orzo or a different gluten-free pasta.
- Extra Protein: Mix in some cooked chickpeas or leftover chicken for an additional protein boost.
FAQs
Can I meal prep Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Orzo?
Yes, Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Orzo keeps well for 3-4 days in the fridge; store in an airtight container.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freeze portions for up to a month; thaw overnight, then reheat gently.
What substitutions work best?
You can swap the orzo for quinoa for a healthier grain option. Adjust seasoning to taste and texture for the best results.
For nutrition insights, visit Healthline.
Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Orzo is a satisfying and nutritious choice for any meal. Try making it today and share your experience with us or comment below!
Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Orzo
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Cooking
- Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add cooked orzo, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and cottage cheese to the skillet.
- Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with crumbled feta cheese before serving.